Which Wedding Photography Style is Right for You?

In the months leading up to your wedding, you’re going to be busy choosing venues, finalizing catering, tailoring the perfect honeymoon, deciding colour themes, sending out invites, and working on your dance moves. Between all this planning and organizing, you may not have time to even consider what you want from your wedding photographer. Save yourself the stress before the big day by browsing this list of the most common wedding photography styles.

Digital vs. Film

One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make in terms of wedding photography is digital versus film. The biggest advantage of choosing digital photography is time. Unlike film photography, which takes time to process, digital photography allows for a faster turnaround time after the ceremony. Digital cameras can also get clear shots in lower light, so it’s the preferred style for late-night or ambient reception photography. The advantage of film photography is the soft, organic quality of images captured on film. If you don’t mind a longer wait for processing and editing, the vintage feel of film photography may be right for you.

Don’t feel like choosing? That’s okay, too. Sometimes, the moment tells the photographer what type of photography is best. Giving the shooter the option to use both film and digital cameras could produce some memorable results.

Formal vs. Candid

Once you’ve settled on the digital versus film debate, the next thing you need to decide is whether you want formal wedding photography or something more candid. Most photographers offer a mix of the two, but you can choose to lean in one direction or the other. Formal wedding photography, in which the couple and the wedding party are posed, can give your wedding a classic look. Candid photography captures the newlyweds, their wedding party, and their guests in an intimate and spontaneous way. Candid photography takes some of the pressure off guests who may be shy in front of the camera.

Artistic vs. Traditional

Wedding photographers are artists. Sometimes, the best-loved photos are captured when the photographer uses unconventional or unexpected props, backgrounds, or filters to freeze a beautiful moment in time that would be otherwise forgotten. Artistic wedding photography utilizes the environment, natural lighting, and less-than-formal angles to capture a moment of truth and love. However, if you’re not a fan of surprises, traditional photography might be better suited for you and your future spouse. Traditional photography is dependable and timeless, so there’s no need to worry that you’ll be happy with the results.

Elegant vs. Hipster

It’s no secret that hipster photography has taken over the industry. It’s an aesthetic that many people flock to because it’s quirky, fun, and shines the happy newlyweds in a brand-new, modern light. Hipster photography is characterized by kitschy poses, the use of antique and unusual props, and deliberate lighting quirks. Elegant photography is for true romantics at heart. If a black-tie wedding has been your dream since you were a little kid, elegant photography that shows off the couple’s best angles and the bride’s gorgeous dress and ring is the style for you.

Just like floral arrangements or decor, deciding between different wedding photography styles is an aesthetic choice every couple needs to make for their wedding. At Cindy June Photography, I offer a number of different styles of photography to choose from so you can ensure that the look and feel of your wedding aligns with your personal tastes. For more information about my photography services and to book a consultation with me today, contact me at Cindy June Photography.